With the Career Fair coming up rather early on in the spring semester, I want you all to start preparing yourselves. Yes, you should have your resume reviewed. Yes, you should practice your elevator pitch. Yes, you should dress to impress. 

So, let's talk about some do's and don'ts of professional dress.

Do

Wear a suit. Think more basic colors like black, grey, and blue. Add a nice button up shirt or blouse. If you wear a belt, make sure it matches your shoes. 

Go with some nice dress pants or skirt and pair it with a professional looking top. Yes to adding a blazer or sweater jacket. No to sneakers. Always no to sneakers. 

Make sure your hair doesn't look like you just rolled out of bed. This goes for facial hair as well! 

Be careful not to overdo it with perfume or cologne.

Don't

Wear flashy jewelry or makeup- err on the conservative side.

Wear shoes you feel uncomfortable walking in--ditch the stiletto heels that pinch your feet.

Wear sweatpants, hoodies, or sneakers. You will be turned away from the fair. 

Remember that this is the first impression you are making with employers, and you want to stand out for the right reasons.

For more tips on how to prepare yourself for the fair make sure you come to the Career Fair Prep Workshop on January 29. Rumor has it there will be pizza (hint). 

If you can't make the workshop, check out the Career Fair Prep Guide on TUPortal, then schedule an appointment with me or Mike Madera on Handshake to have your resume reviewed and to practice your pitch. It's game time Owls, let's go!